After the interest we received about our last post about living well in the city, we decided to begin a series of neighborhood focus pieces.

First up is Sheepshead Bay in South Brooklyn, brought to you by Hakuna’s Joe Toyoshima!

My grandparents have lived here for over 40 years, an area rich with history and culture. Named after a type of fish that is sometimes found in the bay, the residents of Sheepshead Bay neighborhood enjoy a leisurely relationship with the body of water that gives the neighborhood its name - seafood, recreational fishing and walks by the water’s edge.

Sheepshead Bay is a diverse neighborhood with strong Russian, Chinese and Middle Eastern influences. These communities have thrived and created their own Brooklyn identity, alongside the cultures they have brought with them.

Despite its location right by the water Sheepshead Bay did not receive much attention until around 1870 when the area began to be developed after road and railroad expansions. Today the neighborhood is accessible by the B and Q subway lines.

Between 1884 to 1910 Sheepshead Bay was well known for horse racing with a two-mile racetrack.

Access to the water

For seniors living in Sheepshead bay, the neighborhood’s access to open spaces and the waterside provides an invigorating escape.

Walking along Emmons Avenue by the bay, often flocked by seagulls, you can make your way across the water using the Sheepshead Foot Bridge (pictured above). Grab a a rod and tackle and you may wish to join the fisherman who line the water’s edge!

Want to take the fishing up one notch? Consider joining one of the chartered fishing tours departing from the bay, such as fishing with the crew from the Sea Queen. The Sea Queen VII hosts half-day trips from $45 (discounts for seniors!). Make sure you book ahead of time.